Choosing the right upholstery fabric can make or break your furniture project. Whether you’re reupholstering a sofa, updating dining chairs, or creating custom cushions, selecting the right fabric by the yard ensures durability, comfort, and long-lasting style.
This guide walks you through how to choose upholstery fabric based on material, pattern, color, and brand — so you can confidently pick the best option for your space.
1. Start With How the Furniture Will Be Used
Before choosing a fabric, think about where and how it will be used.
- High-traffic areas (family rooms, sectionals): choose durable, performance fabrics
- Occasional seating (accent chairs, benches): decorative fabrics work well
- Homes with pets or kids: stain-resistant or easy-clean fabrics are ideal
If durability is your top concern, browsing by material is a great place to start.
Shop upholstery fabric by material
2. Choosing Upholstery Fabric by Material
The fabric material affects how it feels, wears, and performs over time.
- Cotton & Linen – breathable and classic
- Polyester & Blends – durable and low-maintenance
- Velvet & Chenille – soft, plush, and luxurious
- Vinyl & Performance Fabrics – easy-clean and moisture resistant
Shopping by material helps narrow your options quickly and ensures you choose a fabric that fits your lifestyle.
3. Select the Right Pattern for Your Space
Patterns add personality, texture, and visual interest — but scale matters.
- Large patterns work best on sofas and statement chairs
- Small patterns and textures are ideal for dining chairs and cushions
- Stripes and geometrics feel tailored and modern
- Florals and traditional motifs suit classic interiors
If you’re unsure which design works best, browsing by pattern makes comparisons easier.
Shop upholstery fabric by pattern
4. How Color Impacts Upholstery Choices
Color plays a major role in how furniture feels in a room.
- Light colors brighten spaces but may show wear faster
- Dark colors hide stains and feel cozy
- Neutrals are timeless and flexible
- Bold colors turn furniture into a focal point
Shopping by color helps you coordinate fabrics with existing décor or design a new space from scratch.
Shop upholstery fabric by color
5. Why Brand Matters When Buying Upholstery Fabric
Not all upholstery fabrics are created equal. Established brands are known for consistent quality, testing standards, and long-term performance.
Buying upholstery fabric by brand helps ensure reliable durability, color consistency, and performance for residential or commercial use.
Shop upholstery fabric by brand
6. How Much Upholstery Fabric Do You Need?
Yardage depends on the furniture piece, fabric width, and pattern repeat.
- Accent chair: 3–5 yards
- Dining chair: 1.5–3 yards
- Sofa: 12–18 yards
- Sectional: 18–30+ yards
Always order extra yardage for large pattern repeats or directional fabrics.
Final Thoughts: Buy Upholstery Fabric With Confidence
Choosing upholstery fabric by the yard doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on use, material, pattern, color, and brand, you can select fabrics that look beautiful and perform well for years to come.
At Fabric & Supply, we make it easy to shop upholstery fabric the way professionals do — with curated collections, trusted brands, and flexible ordering by the yard.
